International Paper Commits 2 Million Corrugated Boxes for COVID-19 Relief

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This product donation will benefit hunger-relief organizations such as Feeding America® and The Global FoodBanking Network (GFN), among other relief agencies in communities where International Paper employees live and work.

May 20, 2020

Food banks around the world are
experiencing dramatic increases in demand for food assistance driven by the
economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than ever, food banks need
support. International Paper is responding with one of its essential products —
corrugated boxes. The company has committed to donating two million corrugated
boxes to hunger-relief organizations.

“Our employees are
passionate about supporting critical community needs, and we recognize that our
boxes are essential for distributing food to people hit hardest by the
pandemic,” said Mark Sutton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
“Our employees and our boxes are helping improve the ability of food banks
to serve communities around the world.”

Lisa Moon, president and CEO, The
Global FoodBanking Network, agrees. “Many food banks have had to shift
their model from serving daily hot meals to distributing food rations in boxes.
International Paper’s gift of two million boxes is extraordinary and
desperately needed. Without boxes, we simply cannot get food to people,”
said Moon.

Increased Need around the World

Feeding America, the nation’s
largest domestic hunger-relief organization, estimates that an additional 17.1
million Americans could face hunger in the next six months as a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic.

“Ensuring the health and
safety of our staff, volunteers and our neighbors while serving our communities
is Feeding America’s top priority. We are tremendously grateful for
International Paper for their donation of boxes — an essential component of
food distribution during the pandemic,” said Claire Babineaux-Fontenot,
CEO of Feeding America.

The Global FoodBanking Network
believes the coronavirus pandemic could double the number of people facing life-threatening
food shortages.

Calling on Others to Give

The company has launched a social
media campaign — #HelpFillTheBoxes — to encourage those who are able to donate
to food banks in their communities. Taking action in the fight against hunger
during the pandemic can be as simple as volunteering at a local food bank or
donating money or resources.